Safeguarding Against Summer Storm Damage: Essential Tips and Strategies to Protect Your Home and Family
As summer arrives, so does unpredictable weather. Summer storms can bring heavy rain, strong winds, lightning, fallen trees, even tornadoes or hurricanes. The most severe weather can wreak property havoc, causing significant damage and financial strain. While you can’t always predict when foul weather will strike, you can be prepared for them to ensure the safety of yourself, your loved ones, and your property. Here are our best tips to help you minimize the potential risks of the summer season.
1. Create an Emergency Plan
Responsible homeowners know that it is crucial to take proactive measures to protect their homes and belongings from the destructive forces of nature. This is especially true because homeowners insurance often will not cover “acts of God” and certainly doesn’t cover damage from deferred maintenance: If you haven’t taken proper care of your roof and the roof fails during a storm, it is your financial responsibility to repair. The very first proactive measure you should take, however, is to create an emergency plan for your household. This includes:
Evacuation and Responsibility Plans
Discuss and document a plan with your family members that includes evacuation routes, safe shelter locations, and a designated meeting point in case you get separated. Assign responsibilities to each family member, such as gathering emergency supplies or taking care of pets. Regularly practice your emergency plan to ensure everyone is familiar with the procedures.
Dedicated Emergency Kit
Assemble a comprehensive emergency kit that will sustain you and your family for at least 72 hours. Include essential items such as non-perishable food, drinking water, batteries, flashlights, a first aid kit, a battery-operated radio, a multi-tool, extra clothing and car keys, and any necessary medications. Don't forget to include important documents, like insurance papers and identification, in a waterproof container.
Backup Power
Power outages are common during summer storms. Invest in a generator or battery-powered backup system to keep essential appliances running during an outage. Ensure you have enough fuel and test your backup power system regularly. Never run a generator indoors, as it can produce deadly carbon monoxide gas.
2. Secure Your Property
Before summer storms arrive, take time to secure your property to minimize potential damage. Focus on the following tasks:
Assess and Reinforce Your Roof
The roof is one of the most vulnerable areas during a storm. Inspect your roof regularly for loose or damaged shingles, cracks, or signs of deterioration. Reinforce weak areas and replace missing or damaged shingles promptly. Consider using impact-resistant materials or installing storm clips to enhance the roof's resistance against high winds.
Install a Sump Pump
Basement flooding is a common issue during heavy rainfall or storms. Install a sump pump in your basement or lowest floor area to help prevent water accumulation and potential water damage. Ensure that the pump is in good working condition and consider installing a battery backup system in case of power outages.
Ensure Proper Drainage
Clogged gutters and poor drainage can lead to water damage during heavy rainfall. Clean your gutters and downspouts regularly to prevent blockages. Ensure that water flows away from your house's foundation by maintaining proper grading around your property. Consider installing a sump pump in the basement or crawl space to help remove excess water and prevent flooding.
Strengthen Windows and Doors, Including The Garage
Windows and doors are susceptible to strong winds and flying debris during storms. Consider reinforcing them by installing storm shutters or impact-resistant windows and doors. (If a storm is imminent, plywood will do.) Ensure that all doors have sturdy deadbolt locks and hinges properly secured to protect against wind pressure. Garage doors are often vulnerable to storm damage due to their large size and weak construction. Consult a professional to assess your garage door's structural integrity and reinforce it with a bracing system or impact-resistant doors if necessary. Regularly inspect and maintain the garage door's tracks and rollers to ensure smooth operation.
Regularly Inspect and Maintain Trees
Be proactive in inspecting your trees for any signs of damage or stress. Look for cracks, splits, or signs of decay in the trunk or major branches. Check for lifting or heaving of the soil around the tree's base, as it may indicate unstable root systems. Address any concerns promptly by consulting with an arborist to mitigate potential risks. Trim any dead or overhanging branches that pose a particular threat to your house during severe weather.
Secure Outdoor Items
Outdoor furniture, grills, and other loose items can become hazardous projectiles during stormy weather. Secure or bring these items indoors before a storm hits. If you have larger items like trampolines or swing sets, consider anchoring them to the ground to prevent them from being lifted by strong winds. (The Lines Insurance family knows first-hand what a falling tree or a sharp gust of wind can do to a trampoline!)
3. Review and Update Your Insurance Coverage
Any time is good to review your homeowner's insurance policy, but it’s especially important ahead of storm season to ensure that your property is adequately covered. Begin by making sure that you understand the terms, exclusions and deductibles. Next, take an inventory of your belongings and keep a record of valuable items with supporting documentation, including photographs or videos. Finally, consider adding additional coverage if necessary, such as flood insurance if you live in a flood-prone area.
Preparing for summer storms is a responsible and necessary step to protect yourself, your family, and your property. By creating an emergency plan, securing your property, and reviewing and updating your insurance coverage as needed, you can greatly reduce both the physical and financial risks associated with summer storms. Remember, it's better to be over-prepared than caught off guard when severe weather strikes.
Stay safe as you enjoy the season, and let us know if you need help getting your homeowner’s policy in order ahead of summer storm season.